After appeasing little Clark's emotions, Kara began fully preparing for the college entrance examination.
The study materials didn't seem challenging to her since Kara could read ten lines at a glance and retain everything effortlessly.
However, preparing for the interview required more focus. To address this, Kara and her friends conducted mock interviews at school. Two of them would play the role of interviewers, asking the third person questions inspired by successful seniors' experiences.
These mock interviews often devolved into humorous exchanges. For instance, Jennifer would ask Kara how she maintained her flawless skin and hair.
Kara, unable to explain her natural beauty, joked: "Can I just say that sunlight is my best nutrition? It works for me."
Jennifer pouted, clearly dissatisfied. "Yeah, but if I try it, I'll just end up tanned!"
Dani, on the other hand, had a different line of questioning. She would ask Kara about her "type" or whether she preferred girls over boys.
Kara sighed. "Are you sure the examiners will ask such personal questions?"
Jennifer then crossed her arms and said with mock seriousness, "Alright, let's talk measurements. Spill, Kara."
Kara raised her hands in surrender. "Okay, okay! Enough of this!"
At over six feet tall, Kara was impressive even by boys' standards. Her well-proportioned, golden-ratio figure often left Jennifer envious.
There was even a phase where Jennifer wanted to move in with Kara, convinced that whatever Kara was eating or doing was the secret to her physique. Naturally, Jennifer's parents didn't agree.
Despite their playful antics, the trio eventually faced the college entrance examination.
The written exams went smoothly for all of them. They had prepared well and felt confident about their results. However, the interviews were the final hurdle.
The Interview
College interview questions generally fell into two categories: questions about the school and questions about the applicants themselves.
One of the examiners asked Kara, "Why did you choose our school?"
Kara's answer was calm and concise: "Because my hometown is nearby, and I plan to stay in Metropolis after graduation. This school is my first choice."
The three interviewers observed her carefully. Kara's composed demeanor and confident expression earned nods of approval.
Next, they asked about her understanding of the school.
Kara had researched the school thoroughly but presented her findings in her own words rather than reciting information verbatim from the internet. Her confident and well-organized response impressed the panel.
Finally, the examiners asked her about the content of her written exam.
Kara responded with precision, demonstrating her thorough preparation.
The interviewers exchanged satisfied glances but withheld their verdict for the time being.
"You may leave now," one of them said.
As Kara turned to leave, she overheard the examiner summoning the next candidate. "Let the next applicant come in—Bruce Wayne, I believe?"
Kara paused mid-step. Bruce Wayne?
The name immediately brought several associations to mind. Many people were named Bruce, like Bruce Banner. But the surname Wayne? That was iconic, tied unmistakably to the Wayne Enterprises in Gotham City.
Could it be the same Bruce Wayne? Batman himself?
But why would Bruce Wayne, heir to a billion-dollar empire, be here in Metropolis for a college interview?
Kara dismissed her curiosity and stepped out of the room. As she walked away, she heard footsteps approaching. She glanced back discreetly and saw a striking young man with a mix of confidence and melancholy in his eyes.
Kara had no doubt. That was Bruce Wayne.
Bruce glanced briefly at her before entering the interview room.
What's he doing here? Kara wondered. Why is Batman in Metropolis? Is Superman off to Gotham instead? Please, no. I don't want to deal with Arkham Asylum's craziness.
After Kara's interview, she waited for Dani and Jennifer. Though they had applied together, their interview times were staggered.
Jennifer arrived first, practically glowing with excitement. "Kara, did you see him? That guy was gorgeous!"
Kara raised an eyebrow. Jennifer's enthusiasm was a giveaway—she was clearly talking about Bruce.
"She almost threw herself at him," Dani muttered, shaking her head. "But I have to admit, the guy was handsome. You saw him, right, Kara?"
Kara nodded. "Yeah, I passed him on my way out."
Jennifer leaned closer. "So? Do you like him too?"
Kara rolled her eyes. "Please. You know me better than that. Anyway, shouldn't you focus on your interview instead of swooning over strangers? Imagine if Dani and I pass, and you don't."
Jennifer pouted but eventually returned to her usual self. Bruce Wayne remained on her mind for the rest of the day, though, much to Kara's amusement.
Dani and Kara exchanged knowing looks and shared a silent laugh.